by Nanette Piotrowski

Created on: November 01, 2009   Last Updated: November 03, 2009

Discovered in the 1930's, baking soda (bicarbonate of soda) which is found naturally in mineral deposits, lake sediments and groundwater is mined from a mineral called Trona.

All baking soda in the United States, comes from the largest mine found in Green River, Wyoming.

Baking soda is also manufactured naturally in the human body and helps maintain correct Ph of the bloodstream and is found in our saliva which neutralizes plaque acids in the mouth to prevent teeth from dissolving.

This amazing mineral also neutralizes stomach acids to prevent ulcers and even works as a fire extinguisher on grease or electrical fires and yet it is environmentally benign.

Some of the following uses of baking soda that you will learn, come from my mother who was raised on a farm in the 30's and 40's, when there was none of the modern products of today.

*Medical Purposes

To remove the sting of a sunburn, use 1/2 - 1 box of baking soda in luke-warm bath water.

To dislodge ear wax and prevent buildup, mix baking soda and water to liquid form and put into ears using an eyedropper.

For a stuffy nose, mix 1/4 teaspoon baking soda and 1 tablespoon water and put 1 - 2 drops in each nostril.

Why spend a fortune on throat sprays? For a sore throat, melt 1 aspirin in 2 teaspoons of hot water - add 1 teaspoon baking soda and add another 1/2 cup of hot water and mix - gargle and spit.

As an ant-acid, mix 1/2 level teaspoon of baking soda to 1/2 glass of water and drink.

For whiter teeth, blend 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice. Use a cotton swab to apply to teeth - brush clean with water, then rinse. (Occasional use only). Removes tobacco, tea and coffee stains from teeth.

For bug bites and stings, make a paste of baking soda, apply to area and let dry.

Immediate attention to burns is critical to prevent blistering. Flush area with cool water immediately, and sprinkle with baking soda or apply cloth dipped in ice water with baking soda until the burn has no heat.

*Kitchens

Cutting boards which can harbor a multitude of bacteria and contamination, can be eliminated completely by sprinkling baking soda and vinegar on the board. Allow the combination to quit bubbling, then rinse off with hot water.

To clean the blender, fill 1/2 full with water and add 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 drop of detergent. Blend solution and rinse. (Remember to put on the lid).

For any crystal ware, pour baking soda into warm water and soak for 5 minutes and rinse.

To clear a clogged drain,

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